Seniors shine in Stillwater softball’s special night

It was more than just another game for the Lady Pioneers on Monday night. Stillwater honored seniors Callé Cox, Madeline Thomas, and longtime team manager Bonnie Rutherford before securing a 6–2 win over Norman on Senior Night.

In the most memorable moment of the evening, the Norman Tigers partnered with Stillwater to help Rutherford — who has been a fixture of the team since sixth grade — step into the batter’s box. On the very first pitch, she connected and circled the bases for an unofficial in-field home run, drawing cheers from both dugouts and a standing ovation from the crowd.

“She’s a special kid, and I’m going to be sad to see her go,” head coach Karie Linsenmeyer said. “Having Bonnie be out here with us is the right thing to do. She loves it — why not let her be a part of it? She’s batting a thousand now.”

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On the field, Stillwater struck early with two runs apiece in the first and third innings, and added single runs in the fourth and fifth to stay in control. Grace Tonga led the charge, going 2-for-4 with a home run and tossing a complete game in the circle. The junior allowed just five hits, striking out three while keeping Norman off balance.

Landen Warner reached base three times with a hit and two walks, while Jaelynn Wilhelm added an RBI single.

The win improved Stillwater to 18–5 overall, with the Pioneers sitting second in their district. They’ll continue district play with three more matchups, including upcoming roads games against Deer Creek and Moore.

“These three seniors all have a big part of my heart,” Linsenmeyer said. “Callie’s been a four-year starter, Madeline a three-year starter, and Bonnie has been with us forever. It’s going to be tough to see them go.”

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